A British History in Weather

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A British History in Weather: 6. Holiday on Ice

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6. Holiday on Ice

BBC Radio 4 - A British History in Weather, 6. Holiday on Ice

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has shaped the culture of Britain.

When the rivers froze, frost fairs and fun on the ice. Alexandra Harris tells the story of weather’s role in British culture.

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. When the rivers froze: frost fairs and merry making on ice.

The winter of 1608-9 was so cold that the Thames froze over. 

The great highway of London was at a halt. Then, tents were being thrown up and barrels of ale rolled out. Soon there was bowling and skittles, musicians were playing, there was dancing, drinking, eating. The out-of-work ferrymen set aside their oars and took charge of the impromptu carnival.

A British History in Weather is a celebration of the British climate and a life story of those who have lived in it.

Music by Jon Nicholls.

Producer: Tim Dee

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2016.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Alexandra Harris tells how the weather has been reflected in British culture.

Alexandra Harris tells the story of how the weather has written and painted itself into the cultural life of Britain. With music by Jon Nicholls.

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A British History in Weather

6. Holiday on Ice

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